By Abubakar Shuaibu A.
The Secretary to the Government of Kogi State (SGS), Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade, Ph.D, has commended the Federal Government and the National Population Commission (NPC) for their plans to adopt biometric technology in the conduct of the upcoming national population and Housing census.
Mrs. Ayoade gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to her office in Lokoja on Friday, led by the Federal Commissioner representing Kogi State at the NPC, Engineer Yori Afolabi.
“Two decades after the last census, I am quite elated to know that the forthcoming population census will be conducted using biometrics. This will eliminate any manipulation that may arise in the course of data collection,” she stated.
She emphasized that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria provides for a census every ten years, noting that the last exercise was held in 2006.
Mrs. Ayoade also highlighted the importance of accurate data for national growth and development and called for greater inclusion of women in governance, citing Rwanda as a model.
“In Rwanda, women dominate government. The result is magical. Rwanda is not only one of Africa’s most developed nations but also one of the cleanest,” she added.
She urged the Commission to work diligently to ensure a transparent and hitch-free census exercise.
Earlier, Engineer Yori Afolabi said the visit was to brief the SGS on preparations for the Population and Housing Census and to seek the support of the Kogi State Government.
He noted that the success of the census would rely heavily on grassroots engagement, state-level coordination, and the involvement of critical stakeholders.
“The mobilization of local government authorities, traditional institutions, religious leaders, civil society, and the general public is essential to the success of the exercise,” he said.
Mr. Afolabi concluded that the data to be gathered will enable informed planning, equitable resource distribution, infrastructure development, and inclusive governance across the country
